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Today's Puerto Rican Soldier

THIS IS SSG MIGUEL OJEDA MENDEZ HE IS DAWN RANGE WITH HIS UNIT, A COMBAT ENGINERE BN FROM THE PRNG, FROM MOCA PR, PROUD TO SERVE.

Edwin Ramos

SSG,USA

Hello my name is Aixa Owens (Alvarado) from Comerio, Puerto Rico. I was in the navy as an AO3 Aviation Ordnancemen. I proudly served my country and it was there were I met my husband Andrew Owens also an AO3. I was stationed in Rooselt Roads Puerto Rico in VC-8 and later went to Whidbey Island Washington State to VP-1 P-3 squadron just to find out I was a month pregnant. I could't deploy to Misawa, Japan so I was transferred to the Whidbey Island Chapel were I finished my enlistment. I only served for four years but let me tell you, they were the best years of my life. I am now a disabled veteran and I stay home with my son and go to college. I am a Puerto Rican from the heart and everyone in my squadron knew that. Le envio saludos a mi Mama, hermana y tias en Comerio y a mi Hermana Sgt Alvarado from the Ft. Benning Medic unit. I love you guys and miss you so much. Me siento como un coqui fuera de la islita, mi borinquen querido.

Sincerely,

AO3 Aixa Owens

Soy Luis Raul Rivera de Fajardo entre al Army el 26 Junio 1978 me retire en Enero del 2002, Fui Drill Sgt en Ft. Sill, OK dos veces, que suelte la mia! Fui Acting BN CSM en 448th Engineers en Ft. Buchanan.

JUAN RODRIGUEZ, FROM LONG BRANCH, NJ. , NOW OVERSEAS IN AFGHANISTAN.

HIS LEFT JAN.2006 FOR 18 MONTH. LOVE BY LOTS OF FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

SENT IN BY HIS SISTER
NELLIE AMBERT

Un saludo muy caluroso a toda mi gente Boricua en todas partes del mundo. Mi nombre es Guillermo Quiles Lasanta y estoy sirviendo actualmente en Baghdad, Iraq donde ejerzo como el Pharmacy Consultant
del Multi-National Corps-Iraq. Creci en Country Club, Carolina y me gradue de la Universidad de Puerto Rico (Gallito de la UPI). Llevo 23 yrs en el ejercito, poniendo el nombre de Puerto Rico muy alto. Orgulloso de mi trabajo y esperando poder ayudar a las tropas por medio del campo de farmacia. Gracias por crear la pagina donde podemos compartir con otros compatriotas Boricuas...como yo.

Guillermo Quiles, Jr.
LTC, MS

Hola mi gente y saludos !

My name is Victor M. Roman. I grew up in Bda. Amelia, Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. I graduated from the Rosalina C. Martinez H.S. (Class of  '78).  I attended Eisenhower College (upstate New York) and joined the U.S. Army immediately afterwards. I retired in 2002 after 22 years of service and I am now a U.S. Army civilian (still serving). I am a Force Protection /Antiterrorism Specialist working in Kaiserslautern, Germany.

May God continue to bless "nuestra isla bonita".....

QUE VIVA PUERTO RICO !!!

Mi nombre es Gunnery Sergeant Jose L. Valentin Santana. Soy de Juana Diaz y estoy estacionado en San Diego, California. Llevo 14 anos en el servicio military protegiendo nuestra libertad. Recientemente estoy en Baghdad, Iraq. Tengo tres hijas que viven en Virginia y mi preciosa companera Jessica Nelson que tambien esta en los Marines y vive en San Diego, California.

SEMPER FI!!

GySgt Jose L. Valentin
United States Marine Corps

Jose N. Rodriguez-Ocasio
CPT, MI

I was born in San German P.R. I graduated from the Inter-American University of Puerto Rico in 1999 with a bachelor degree in Management Information Systems and also commissioned as Infantry Officer in January, 2000.

My previous assignments include Infantry Rifle Platoon Leader, Company Executive Officer and Battalion S4 (Logistic officer), 2nd Battalion, 6th infantry Regiment, 2nd BCT, 1st AD, Germany; Assistant S2, 2nd BCT, 1st AD; Battalion S2 (Intelligence officer), 40th Engineer Battalion (M), 2nd BCT, 1st AD and G2 Targeting Officer, 101st Airborne Division. Currently, I’m commander of the MI Detachment, 3rd Battalion, 5th Special Forces Group (Airborne), FT Campbell, KY.

My military education include: Infantry Officer Basic Course, Bradley Fighting Vehicle Leaders Course, Unit Movement Officer Course, Military Intelligence Officer Tactician Course, Military Intelligence Captains Carrier Course, Signal Intelligence/ Electronic Warfare Officer Course, Joint Intelligence Targeting Course, Collection Manager Course, High Value Individuals Targeting Course.

Previous Awards include: Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal (2 OLC), Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon (3 OLC), and Army Service Ribbon, Expert Infantry Badge, Combat Infantry Badge, Airborne and Air Assault Badges

I’m married to Dannette Vazquez-Roman and we have two kids; Gabriel J. and Sebastian J.

Boricua y de Pura Sepa!!!!

My husband is Jose A. Vargas....He is originally from Mayaguez, PR....Has been in the military for six years...A great father, thoughful son and wonderful husband...We are currently living in Germany....We wanted to let him and all other members of the Armed Forces know that what they sacrifice for us is never forgotten....We love you and are proud of you....The wifey: Naomi......

Soy CW2 (Ret) Edwin Rodríguez Pazo. Serví en el ejército de los Estados Unidos del 1982 hasta el 2002. Durante ese tiempo estuve en Granada, Honduras, Panama, y el Mediano Oriente. Nací en Fort Ord, CA, por que mí papá, PSG (Ret) Pedro Antonio Rodríguez Morales, sirvió en el ejercito también. Cuando mí papá fue licenciado por heridas recibidas en Vietnam vivimos en Ponce por varios años y después nos mudamos para Peñuelas. Ahora vivo en Greenwood, MO y continúo mi servicio con el gobierno federal. Gracias a todos ustedes que siguen sirviendo y a todos los que han servido.

Mi papá es PSG (Ret) Pedro Antonio Rodríguez Morales. Sirvio en el ejército de los Estados Unidos por veintitrés años. Estuvo en la guerra en Korea y en Vietnam. Durante suservicio en Vietnam estuvo en la base de fuego indirecto Mahone en Pleiku. Por suservicio en esa base durante un ataque del enemigo le honoraron con la Estrella de Plata. Es natural de Peñuelas, PR y, como ven, continúa disfrutando su vida en el la finca donde nacio.

We are Albert Massol (left side) and Andres Massol (right side) born and raised in Adjuntas, Puerto Rico (the sons of Fincho and Milo). Combined we have a total of 48 years of continuous active duty service in the U.S. Navy. Currently, we're stationed out of Naval Station San Diego, California at the Training Support Center and Afloat Training Group Pacific respectively.

We never forget our heritage or culture and we are proud to say SOMOS BORICUAS everywhere we go. We have been inspired by the fighting spirit of those who have gone before us. From the Gulf War to the War on Terrorism we have been deployed in support of combat operations defending freedom....serving with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

Albert will be deploying to Irak early next year as a Platoon Leader in support of the War on Terrorism and I'm looking forward to retiring next fall. Our thoughts and prayers are for those currently in service overseas in harms way. Stay safe and God Bless!!

Mi Nombre es José A. Rodriguez-Rodriguez (Pochy) soy natural del Poblado Rosario, Mayagüez. Me Gradué en el 1987 de La Universidad Católica De Puerto Rico e ingrese al ejercito el 21 de Junio 1987. Actualmente estoy sirviendo en “U.S. Army Medical Department Center & School” en Fort Sam Houston, San Antonio, Texas 78234. Quiero a través de este darle un saludo a mis compueblanos y familia decirles que estoy bien por acá. También quiero decirles a los futuros Soldados en la Bella isla del encanto que no tengan miedo y que echen “pa’lante” les doy la bienvenida a nuestro ejercito el cual se que lo van a disfrutar muchísimo “Sin Miedo Boricua”. Oye un Saludo muy especial a Dade Minguela en el Poblado Rosario y a Rene Martínez en Mayagüez. También a mis Hermanos, Javier Bernandini y Ramón (chino) Castillo a mis hermanas Jeannette Vega y Luz Esther Castillo, los quiero machísimo. Pero Un besote grande a mí querida Abuela Marcelina Sánchez en el Poblado Rosario. Gracias Boricua - “keep up the great work”

Jose A. Rodriguez-Rodriguez
SFC, USA
NCOIC, CSBPO(Corps Specific Branch Proponent Offices)

Mi nombre es SN/E-3 Kevin J Martinez estoy comenzando mi carrera, en U.S. Coast Guard. Soy the Camuy, P.R estacionado en Long Island. Para mandarle un saludo y muchas felicidades a my familia que los amo y a la familia de mi esposa que tambien me hacen falta y a todos mis amigos en Camuy que pasen una feliz navidad y los veo pronto que Dios los bendiga.

ASCM(AW/SW) Zenaida Colón

My name is Zenaida Colón a native of Barranquitas and lived and joined the US Navy in Bayamon. I'm a Master Chief Petty Officer station in
Aviation Intermediate Maintenance Department (AIMD) NAS Oceana. My previous duty assignments include: Reconnaissance Squadron Four in Patuxent River, MD; AIMD NAS Pensacola, FL; AIMD Naval Station Roosevelt Road, PR; Naval Aviation Maintenance Training Group Detachment 3033 in San Diego, CA. US Customs Service in Chicago, IL; USS JOHN C. STENNIS (CVN 74); AIMD Norfolk, VA; USS WASP (LHD-1) and SPAWARSYSCEN Norfolk, VA. I am married to Carl Alexander White from Atlanta, GA, who has supported my career for over 21 years. Thank you for honoring and recognizing 'Boricuas' in the Armed Forces. Congratulations you have a great website.

Capt Ismael "Tito" Del Valle, Nacido en Santurce y crecido entre Carolina, Canovanas y Cayey. Actuelmente soy piloto de AWACS en Oklahoma. Enlistado como missile maintenance, comisionado por OTS y graduado de piloto en Columbus, MS. Donde tuve la oportunidad y privilegio de conocer a Many Gomez. Muy orgulloso de mi isla y de mi gente.

Mi nombre es Jose J. Valderrama, soy del pueblo de Ciales, Puerto Rico y estoy estacionado en Alemania, 1/7 HHB artillery. Con mucho orgullo representando a mi tierra Puerto Rico. saludos a todos esos boricuas soldados que dia a dia dan su trabajo y esfuerzo para este pais, que Dios los bendiga a todos y a sus familias. desde Alemania.

Saludos a mi gente. My nombre es SFC Gerardo Ortiz. Naci en Aguas Buenas y tengo familia en muchas partes de la Isla especialmente en Caguas , Bayamon , Cidra, Ponce , y Aibonito. En el presente me encentro en Iraq sirviendo con mucho orgullo para proteger a mi gente del los terroristas. Mantengan a los soldados en sus oraciones.

SFC Gerry Ortiz

My name is Jose M. Hernandez Sanchez and I was born in Santurce, Puerto Rico. Grew up in Jardines de Caparra, Bayamon and graduated at Pedro P. Casablanca High School in 1989. After 3 years of college, I joined the
US Army in Dec 1992 and have being in the service for almost 14 years. My MOS is 25V which is a combat photographer. I'm currently station at Ft. Campbell, KY with the 5th Special Forces Group. I hope to continue to
serve the US Armed Forces, unless I get blown up one of these days. I had a couple of close calls troughtout the 4 times I being in Iraq.

SGT (P) Hernandez

Un saludo carinoso a todos los Boricuas que se encuentran fajandose "downrange". Cuando se tomo esta foto me encontraba en los predios de el estadio Olimpico en Kabul, Afganistan. Sobre la barba y vestimenta...pues eso es otra historia...

Besos y abrazos a la familia Flores, orgullosos decendientes de aquellos que nacieron en COAMO ARRIBA y BARRANQUITAS (ustedes saben quienes son!)

Siempre hacia adelante-

Fernando
San Antonio, TX

20 September 2006: My name is Frankie Alvarez. I’m a Nuyorican and proud of it. I was born in the Bronx in 1962. My mother, Nerida (the most incredible women on Earth), was born in Santurce and my father, Jose, God rest his soul, was born in Manati. Today, thanks to my parents, I’m a Master Chief Petty Officer in the United States Navy and have served for 24 years and counting. I work in the Intelligence Community and am currently stationed in San Antonio , Texa . First and foremost, my wife, Emelda, my daughter Melodie, and I send our prayers to all Sailors, Soldiers, Airman, Marines, Coast Guard and civilians currently in harms way fighting on land, in the air and on the high seas for one purpose only, to keep free nations just that, “FREE!” They’re standing the watch RIGHT NOW and making a difference. Over the last 24 years, I’ve met hundreds of Puerto Ricans serving in the Armed Forces and they’re as proud of serving as I am. They represent the absolute best of our Puerto Rican culture and I’m proud to call them my brothers and sisters. God bless you all.

Hola mi gente, mi nombre es SSG Nelson Acevedo Soto nacido y criado en Hormigueros. Mi trabajo es 92F Petroleum supply specialist. LLevo en el Army 16 años y medio; me encuentro en Bagram Afghanistan por 6 meses con 3rd Special Forces group con Support BN. Estoy estacionado en Dexheim, Alemania y mi unidad es 123rd Main Support Battalion. Les envio un saludo bien grande a todos, suerte y salud.

My name is Manuel Gomez. I'm a Captain in the USAF. I was born in Carolina, PR and spent my childhood there until 1991. In 1995, I enlisted as a jet engine mechanic. I commissioned thru OTS in 2000 and graduated pilot training in 2001. I was an instructor pilot at Columbus AFB until 2005. Today I fly F-16s with the 93rd Fighter Squadron in Homestead ARB, FL.

PFC.Ramon L Colon Jr.
US. Army ahora se encuentra prestando servicio en Kuwait.

Les envio un cordial saludo desde Offutt AFB, Nebraska. Mi nombre es Wilfredo Ramirez oriundo de Mayaguez y llevo 22 años en la Fuerza Aerea y aunque me retiro ya pronto, siempre recordare mi carrera militar con gran orgullo. A todos los que estan empezando en lo militar, siempre recuerden que estan representando a la sangre boricua.

Siempre pa’lante, pa’tra ni pa coger impulso…

Que viva PR

Hola! Soy el Major Dennis Montero oriundo de Villa Del Carmen en Ponce, PR (Ponce es Ponce y lo demas es parking, jaja). Forme parte del Air Defense Platoon en la HHC 92SIB, PRNG, del 1987 al 1993; estoy sumamente orgulloso de haber pertenecido a ese elite platoon como enlistado y NCO. Servi en Korea (PLT LDR 1-506th IN Camp Greaves, Korea) , Ft. Jackson, Ft. Lee, Ft. Leavenworth, Ft. Bragg (Commander, HHC 530th S & S Battalion), Ft. Stewart (3ID Rear DTO, Commander HHC 3220th GSU and BN S3). Me encuentro en estos momentos en Camp Arifjan, Kuwait como S3 Training del Area Support Group. Soy reservista, y en la vida civil soy official de US Customs en el Aeropuerto Internacional de Miami, FL.

Soldados boricuas, tenemos una mission en la cual no vamos a fallar de ninguna manera y es poner el nombre de nuestra isla en alto a traves de nuestro servicio ejemplar en las Fuerzas Armadas. WE WILL NOT FAIL, WE WILL NOT SETTLE FOR LESS, WE WILL SUCCEED.

Godspeed!! Gracias por este website y que Dios me los cuide a todos

Joel Jimenez - (Jurando con la mano alzada)

VALLA MI GENTE!!!! MI NOMBRE ES JIMENEZ JOELDIMAR, SOY DE AGUADILLA CIUDAD DE LOS TIBURONES Y DE DONDE LAS PIEDRAS CANTAN!!!! , LLEVO ESTACIONADO EN ALEMANIA POR UN PERIODO DE SEIS AñOS, ESTUVE EN BAUMHOLDER,GERMANY CON C BTRY 1-94 FA MLRS, CON QUIENES FUI PARA IRAQ EN MARZO 20 DEL 2003 POR UN PERIODO DE 15 MECES DEPLOYMENT, EN ESTOS MOMENTOS ESTOY ESTACIONADO EN KAISERSLAUTERN,GERMANY CON LA 66 TRANS COMPANY, QUIENES SE VAN PARA IRAQ EN AGOSTO DE ESTE AñO,

RECUERDEN, BORICUA DE CORA!!!!! Y A REPRESENTAR DONDE QUIERA QUE ESTEMOS, PA LANTE TO EL TIEMPO QUE PA TRAS NO HAI NA !!!!!!!

Johnnathan Flores, with his father Jorge Flores, during a short trip to the island from Iraq for his wedding. Johnnathan is an Apache helicopter mechanic and will be stationed in Germany.

Mi name is SFC Edgar Fuentes, borne in Brooklyn New York raised in Arecibo Puerto Rico. I have been in the Army for 17 years, station in Germany (Hanau), Korea (CP Stanley), New York (FT Hamilton), and Texas (Ft Hood). I’m currently deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom for the second time. Right now I’m the Operation Noncommissioned Officer for an Artillery Battalion. I want to tell my fellow Boricuas that we have to represent while in the Armed Forces, giving a good example for others to follow. We have a lot of great Puertoricans in the Army, some of them that have gave it all for this country. One of them is SFC Jose Rivera from Bayamon PR, killed in action 5 NOV 03 Iraq. A great person, a great warrior, and a great friend. On of the most proud Boricua I ever had the privilege to meet. Just like him are others that deserve more recognition. Like we always say “Pa Lante, Pa Atras Ni Pa Cojer Impulso” Orugullo Boricua to the Max!

E Fuentes
SFC (P), USA
Operations NCOIC
"Lead, Follow or Get the Hell Out The Way"

HOLA HERMANOS BORICUAS EN LAS FUERZAS ARMADAS, MI
NOMBRE ES HECTOR FUENTES RETIRADO DEL US ARMY
(31L30H). VIVO EN KISSIMMEE FLORIDA Y EN LA FOTO ESTOY
CON MI HIJO PFC JOSSIAN CORTES ESTACIONADO
EN FORT DRUM N.Y. CON EL 10TH MOUNTAIN DIV. YA PRONTO
SALDRA PARA IRAQ Y ESPERO QUE TODO SALGA BIEN.

Mi nombre es Roberto Isaac nacido y criado en Ponce. Mi madre y hermano todavia viven en la calle Victoria. Ahora yo vivo en Denver, Colorado y esto en la Guardia Nacional asignado al 140th Logistics Squadron. Ya llevo mas 32 años fuera de la Isla pero mi corazon nunca se ha ido de Ponce. Saludos a toda mi gente que se encuentra por estos Estado Unidos y mayorment a aquellos que mantienen el nombre de Puerto Rico bien en alto sirviendo en las Furezas Armadas. Que Dios bendiga siempre a la isla mas bella del mundo y a toda su gente.

My name is Angel Morales Puerto Rican from Brooklyn,NY. I served proudly on active duty with the US Air Force from Jul 1977 – Mar 1998. While on active duty I was stationed in New York, Panama, Texas and finally my last 8 years in Germany. I currently live in Texas with my family. Sending a shout out to all my people on active duty giving the best that they have for their country. I am currently working as a regional manager for a storage company. My parents (Regino Y Pura Morales) reside in Bayamon, PR.

Que viva la musica, y que viva Puerto Rico.

Angel Morales

SPC Ana R. Smith-Rodriguez
Served from 2001-2005
US Army Active Duty
Administrative Specialist (42L)

I was stationed in Heidelberg, Germany with the 30Th Medical Brigade and 100Th Medical Detachment. And at Fort Jackson, South Carolina with the 1st Basic Combat Training Brigade. I am very proud of been "Boricua" and served to America with my heart. I'm at the moment a military spouse and my prayers are with my husband SSG Willie M. Smith (US Army 3/71 CAV), my brother SSG German Rodriguez-Perez (US Air Force), my brother-in-law SGT Michael Helmen (US Army), and all friends and military members that are still giving the battle for our freedom. God bless them all.

Mi nombre es Amaury B. Ochart, nacido en Harlem, NY y criado en Fajardo, la capital de la SALSA. Vivi en la urb. Monte Brisas. Estudie en le Colegio Santiago Apostol, 1976 y en la escuela Superior Dr. Veve Calzada, de la cual me gradué en el 1979. Mi alma mater es la Universidad Interamericana de San German, me gradue en 1983 del Departamento de Ciencias Naturales.

Ingrese al Army en Abril del 1987. Actualmente soy instructor del curso de primer sargento en la academio de sargento majores en El Paso, Texas. Yo tambien soy graduado de la Academia de Sargentos Mayores de los Estados Unidos Clase # 54/2004. Llevo 19 años en el Army. He estado estacionado en Ft. Hood, Panama, Honduras, Korea, Ft. Bliss, y Alemania.

Quiero decirle a todos los Soldados que se cuiden y sigan hacia adelante, pa' tras ni pa' cojer impulso. Que Dios los cuide a todos dondequiera que se encuentren al igual que a toda su familia.

Mi nombre es Richard Gonzalez Brock, nacido en Mineola, NY y criado en Arecibo. Soy del barrio Hato Arriba, y mi familia es del barrio Esperanza. Estudie en la escuela Roosevelt, la Jefferson, la Muñoz Marín y la Trina Padilla de Sanz de la cual me gradué en el 1983. Estudié por dos años en el Recinto Universitario de Mayagüez, Facultad de Ingeniería Civil desde el 1983 hasta el 1985.

Entré al Army en Mayo del 1985. Actualmente estoy estacionado en la ciudad de Kaiserslautern, Alemania. Yo soy el Sargento Mayor de Support Operations, 21ST Theater Support Command. Soy graduado de la Academia de Sargentos Mayores de los Estados Unidos Clase # 54. Llevo veinte años en el Army de los cuales la mayoría han sido en Alemania. Estuve estacionado en Fort Hood, Fort Stewart y Fort Bliss.

Quiero decirle a todos los Soldados, Marinos, Airman, Navy y Coast Guard, que sean orgullosos de ser Puertorriqueños siempre. Que Dios y la Virgen me los bendiga a todos dondequiera que se encuentren al igual que a todos sus seres queridos.

Que viva Puerto Rico y toda su gente. Sabor Boricua hasta la muerte.

Saludos a toda la isla de el encanto, mi nombre es Benjamin Rivera-Figueroa, obtentento el rango de Staff Sergeant y tengo 17 años en el servicio military 6 en reserve active y 11 años activos. De los activos 4 son en el Navy y el resto con el Army, trabajo como Cargo Specialist, pero ahora obtengo la posicion de NCOIC de los drivers para COMMNAD GROUP the 21st TSC , en Panzer Kaserne, Kaiserslautern en Germany.

Mi mensaje es para los que estamos en este negocio militar : es que donde quiera que hay un boricua es un hermano tuyo que merece tu ayuda si la nesecita; Yo personalmente me ciento tan orgulloso de que como raza nos dejamos sentir en el mundo entero; ha! y somos los MEJORES en el BASEBALL a nivel mundial....quidencen todos y aqui tienen un hermano Boricua....

A big cordial greeting to my Puerto Rican soldiers and praying to our beloved God almighty for all you soldiers around the world conducting your contribution and carrying your heritage as soldiers, and Puerto Rican citizens - "Vaya Mi gente, Que Dios los bendiga" a donde quieran que esten. Receive God's blessing. "Todos Por La patria."

Israel Rosario, Jr.
(Ret) E-7 3rd Inf. Division.
I'm from Manati, Puerto Rico and reside in Brooklyn, NY. with 17years of army infantry experience.

Who said “National Guard never deploys?”
Very Respectfully,
CHARLY BERIO, SSgt, USAF
Protocol NCO

Hola mi nombre es CPT Vázquez, estoy estacionada en Fort Hood, Texas.

Actualmente me desempeño como OIC de la Farmacia "Outpatient" en
Darnall Army Community Hospital. Soy de San Juan, estoy casada por doce
años y tengo dos maravillosos hijos. Quiero enviarle saludos a todos los
soldados Boricuas que están pagando el precio para disfrutar de nuestra
libertad. Dios Bendiga a todos..

I entered the Army in 1999 as an Infantry Rifle platoon leader for the 1-22nd Infantry Battalion, Fort Hood, Texas. My previous assignments include: Assistant Brigade S4 (BDE Maintenance Officer) 4th Infantry Division, 1st BDE; BDE S4 (Logistic Planner) 4th Infantry Division, 1st BDE (BDE captured Sadam Hussein in Dec 03); Joint Planning and Assistance Team Officer in Charge, US Embassy, Guatemala; and as the 704th Division Support Battalion Support Operations Transportation Officer, 4th Infantry Division (Operation Iraqi Freedom-1). Commander of D Company 1-56th ADA and Transportation School, Fort Bliss, Texas.

My professional military education includes the Infantry Officer Basic Course, the Bradley Fighting Vehicle Leaders Course, Force XXI Battle Command Brigade and Below (FBCB2), and Combined Logistics Captains Career Course.

Previous awards include Army Parachutist Badge, Bronze Star Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Ribbon, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, and Army Service Ribbon. He is married to former Ivelisse Velez-Martinez of Lajas, Puerto Rico. They have two children, Liam Scott, and Natasha Ivelisse.

I currently command the Transportation School at Fort Bliss, Texas, where I train more than 31% of 88Ms (Motor Transport Operators) America’s sons and daughters in the US ARMY. Orgullo Boricua!!!

HOLA MI GENTE COMO ESTAN? MI NOMBRE ES ANGEL IRIGOYE,N DE PONCE PUERTO RICO, LA CIUDAD DE LOS LEONES. VALLAAAAA!!!!.

I'M STATIONED WITH CO. 1ST MI BN ON HOHENFELS, GERMANY. I'VE BEEN IN THE MILITARY FOR 9 YEARS AND BEEN STATIONED IN FORT BRAGG, NC; SOUTH KOREA, GERMANY, AND DEPLOYED ALL OVER THE WORLD.  I'M CURRENTLY SERVING MY SECOND IRAQ TOUR. I HAVE 4 BEAUTIFUL CHILDREN AND ONE COMING UP IN MARCH, IM PROUD OF THEM AND I LOVE THEM.

THANK YOU FOR THIS OPPORTUNITY AND HAVE A BEAUTIFUL CRISTMAS TO EVERYBODY. I WILL BE HERE IN IRAK.........

Soldiers from the Puerto Rico National Guard, ADA Platoon, HHC 92 SIB, celebrating at a Navidad Party hosted by the Organización Civico-Cultural de Puertorriqueños in El Paso, TX.  Dec 17, 2005.

Their names (not in any order) are: Félix, M. Morales, José R Zayas, Victor A Rovira, Reinaldo Guzmán, Edwin Correa, Jorge L . León, Jorge L. Vega, Leonardo Rivera, Pedro Rosado, Manuel Colón, Billie Ramos, Radames Rentas, Carlos R. González, Daniel Torres, José M. Torres, Georges Rodríguez, Carlos Muñiz, Luis Román, Daniel Colón, Juan Oliveras, Luis A. Santiago, and Manuel A. Colón. They will be deployed to Afghanistan in the Spring.

Cesar Merced (to the right)- is also serving with the group of soldiers from the PR National Guard, but was left out of the group picture.

My name is Jose M Garcia alias (Pacho) from Rio Piedras. I'm active duty in the US Army, stationed at Fort Carson Colorado. Currently working at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. I've been serving the US Armed Forces for 8 years. I want to send my love to my family. A mi Esposa Maria, Mi hija Lyzz que se encuentran en Colorado Springs, y a mi famila en Puerto Rico- mi Mama, mis hermanos Javier y Jeanette, mi Tia Nayda, y mi hermana que vive en Boston Ileana. And keep in mind that Mi patria es numero uno. Besos.

My name is SFC Ferdinand Robledo-Cortes. I am from barrio Cerrillos Hoyos, Sector Mameyes en Ponce, P.R. I am stationed with my family here at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. I work at the Installation Equal Opportunity Office as an Advisor to the Commanding General. I had been in active duty for 14 ½ years stationed in numerous places overseas like Germany, Italy, The Netherlands and deployed to Africa on a Humanitarian Mission during Operation Support Hope in 1994. Stateside, I had been stationed in Buffalo, NY, Miami, Fl and here at Ft. Jackson, SC. My wife Maria, my daughter Jeanelle, my son Edgardo Luis and I want to wish a Merry Christmas to all our families in the island and to all other military families stationed here and abroad. Feliz Navidad y Prospero Ano lleno de dicha y felicidad para todos. (right pic)

Luis Daniel & Daniel Luis Morales

This is my future husband to be, Specialist Michael O. Serrano. He is currently serving in Iraq on his second tour with the 3/3 HHT 3rd ACR Troop from Fort Carson, Colorado. He's been serving in the US Army for 4 years as a Food Specialist. His mother was born and raised in Puerto Rico. Mike was born and raised in New Jersey, so he considers himself a jerzirican! He just became a new father in August 2005 to our son Julian Miguel. We our very proud of him!! Papi we love you and miss you sooo much!! To all the soldiers serving out there God Bless You!!

My name is SGT Michael A. Hernandez Martinez and I’m from Bayamon P.R.    I’m currently stationed in Landstuhl Army Medical Regional Center in Germany, and have been serving in the Army for over 8 years. I want to send my love to my family and my daughter Bridnie back home.

My name is HM3(SW) Katherine Ríos from Ponce. I'm active duty in the US Navy, stationed on the USS Gunston Hall (LSD 44), out of Little Creek, Virginia. Currently deployed for 6 months. I am the only Puerto Rican female on my ship and it is truly an honor to represent my country out here. I've been serving the US Armed Forces for 5½ years. I want to send my love to my family "Alvarado-Santiago" Papi y Mami - los quiero mucho. Mi patria es numero uno. Besos.

My name is Carlos Diaz I was born and raise in Cayey (Guavate). I’ve been serving in the US Army for 22 yrs. I live in Hawaii and this is where I’ll retire in the near future. Just want to say to the boricua soldiers thanks for representing the little island and make everyone proud. I also want to say to my son who’s station at Camp Pendleton CA, thanks for being a great son and keep your head up be proud your dad is!   Carlos Diaz, SFC (P)

My name is MA1 José A Guadalupe Caquias, I'm from Ponce, P.R. I'm currently station in Norfolk, VA, I have 21 years in service in Army Reserve, USMC and Navy. I'm Proud to be a former Marine, Once a Marine, always a Marine, Semper Fi!!! this website is very nice and very proud the work you been doing y que reconozcan todos los Puertorriqueños que estan en las Fuerzas Armadas. Keep the Good Work!!! Viva Puerto Rico!!

My name is SSG Javier Enrique Colón Mendoza and I'm from Puerto
Nuevo, P.R. I am currently stationed in Fort Carson, Co and have been
serving in the U.S. Army for over 14 years. You have a very nice website and
I would be proud to be posted on there. Que Viva Puerto Rico!

SSG Colon, Javier E.

Soy SSG Franqui, Eliezer del Barrio La 15 en Cabo Rojo, en enero cumplo 14 años en el Army, ahora estoy estacionado en Fort Carson, Colorado como AC/RC entrenador de le guardia nacional, reserve, air force, y active army, mi trabajo original es 19D Cavalry Scout y e estado estacionado en Alemania (Fulda), Fort Hood (Texas) dos veces, Camp Garry Owen (KOREA) Dos veces en Kwait y ahora Fort Carson, saludos a todos, cuidense y que Dios los bendiga a todos.

SSG FRANQUI, ELIEZER
HHC 1/360 IN, 2BDE, 91DIV
FORT CARSON, COLORADO

I'm 1LT/IN Felix Torres

1LT/IN Torres, Felix (MILLO Torres)
Airborne, Ranger, Air Assault Lead The Way!!!

SPC. Alberto Rodriguez
Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico in 1977. My hometown is Carolina, and I am a 19 DELTA U.S. CALVARY SCOUT with the 3rd Squadron, 7th Calvary Regiment of the 3rd Infrantry Division stationed at Ft. Stewart, GA. I am on Active Duty since 2002, and have been deployed to Iraq on OIF 1 and OIF 3. Proud to be 100% Boricua, de corazón, Viva Puerto Rico!

Hi my name is Senior Airman Lysmariam Feliciano-Verdejo (Puertorrican-Rio Grande/Fajardo) Job: Special Vehicle Maintenance and my fiance is Airman First Class Allan Valladares-Peña (Honduran) Job: Supply we are in the Air Force at Shaw AFB. Allan is currently in Iraq and Iwould like to post our picture and send him a message if possible.

" Te amo y estoy muy orgullosa de ti, soon we will be together again. Thank you for all your sacrifices and all the struggle you have to go through to make us safe".    Besos . . . . Lys

SGT.Velez Jr , Antonio (263rd Qm Co.Cp.Taji Iraq) out of El Paso TX. Served in active duty from 1999 -2003 in the US Army. His reserve unit was activated back in 2004. He is hoping to get accepted to the AGR (Active Guard Reserves). Originally from Ct./Puerto Rico(Levittown/Sabana Seca).

We love you papi, we are so proud of you. Te mandamos mucho besos y todas las bendiciones. Quidate mi amor, tu y todos tus companeros. Come home soon !

Tu esposa y tus nenas,
Jasmin, Kristen & Nickole Velez

George Perez
Rank - Spc. 4
Job - Paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division

My son George, was born in Caguas. He has been in the Army for 3 years. He served in Iraq for a week before he was injured and lost his left leg below the knee. Currently he is in Afghanistan proving himself once more. He's got a lot of drive and determination and has made a miraculous recovery. We, his family are proud & Puerto Rico should be, too. We couldn't have asked for a more exemplary representation of what a true Boricua is!

My son lost the lower part of his left leg in Iraq in 2003. He is stationed in Ft. Bragg, but is serving 12 months in Afghanistan. He is the first 82nd Airborne paratrooper to jump with a prosthesis.

"An 82nd Airborne Division soldier from New Jersey who lost part of a leg in Iraq landed the second parachute jump in his comeback on Saturday, March 19th, 2005, staying on track to deploying with his unit to Afghanistan this spring.

Spc. George Perez, 21, of Carteret, and of Puerto Rican descent, completed his second parachute jump since a roadside bomb explosion in 2003 forced the amputation of his left leg below the knee. Paratroopers are required to jump every few months to retain their qualification.

Perez jumped with about 100 other soldiers. All wore high, black boots. Perez's artificial leg was shod with a white athletic shoe.

He said his landing over Sicily Drop Zone at Fort Bragg was much softer than his last jump in December. He said he fell too fast last time and hit the ground too hard with the carbon-fiber prosthesis, snapping it.

Perez is one of at least four amputees from the elite 82nd Airborne Division to re-enlist in the past two years. He must show a medical board he can run an eight-minute mile, jump out of airplanes and pass all the other paratrooper tests that will allow him to go with his regiment to Afghanistan."

Hector L Rodriguez Colon
Rank - SSG
Stationed in Puerto Rico
Job - Recruiting

I'm working as a recruiter but before that as a DS in Fort Allen PR

Rafael Perez-Perez
Rank - MSG (RET)
Stationed in Colorado Springs, Colorado
Job - Working as a Maintenance Manager Coordinator at Shriever AFB
for the Ground Mid-Course Defense System

Born in Ponce. Entered the military from Juana Diaz in 79 and retired in 04 after serving some time in Iraq. Great site.

Carmen Rosado
Rank - LT
Stationed in Germany
Job - Maintanance

I'm from La Parguera, lajas PR. I'm station in Germany 1AD. Active duty since 1998. I got my commission from OCS 2002. Been depoy to Bahgdad, Iraq with 501 FSB and 1st Armor Division.

José Luis Núñez Rosa
Rank - Lieutenant Colonel, Infantry
Stationed in the United States
Job - CGSC Strategic and Operational Strudies Professor

I was born in San Sebastian de las Vegas del Pepino. I went to school in my hometown. In 1969 I was drafted in the US Army and served for two years, spending the last on in the Republic of Vietnam. After discharged from the Army, I joined the 770th Military police Company, Puerto Rico Army National Guard in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. I attended the Inter-American Uuniversity, San German and graduated in 1976 with a BA in Spanish and Education. I was also commissioned as a Second Lieutenant, Infantry from the ROTC Program at the Universityof Puerto Rico in Mayaguez. I entered the Army again in 1976 and served over 28 years as an officer. I served from Platton leader to battalion Commander. I was stationed in Germany, Honduras, Saudi Arabia, and Madrid, Spain. Now I teach the Command and General Staff Course at Fort Leavenwoth, Kansas.

David Ramos
Rank - Specialist - E4
Stationed in El Paso, Texas
My job is with the PATRIOT: Air Defense

I am from Bayamón, and I am living in El Paso, Texas.

Henry L. Rodriguez-Rivera
Rank - SFC
Stationed in Ft. Jackson, SC
Job - Drill Sgt.

I am from Naguabo and I live in Fayetteville, NC. I am a Reservist on call up since Feb 2003, in my civilian job I work in the USPO as a mail carrier. I grauated from HS in PR in 1979.

SSG Josue D. Nieves
Stationed in Kuwait
My job is handling of soldiers returning from leave.

I want to thank God for all the people that support us in so many ways, and in particular supporting our mission, as we are making a historical difference in this country and the destiny of so many lives and souls. Dios los bendiga a todos!

Luriam Sonia Hernandez (photo on the left)
First Class Specialist E-4
Born in Puerto Rico, from Guaynabo

This picture was in Afghanistan back on 2003. Luriam served 4 years of active duty. Now, she is studying at Northampton Community College in Pennsylvania. The picture and information was sent in by her very PROUD Mother, Ada.

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Specialist E4 Eulises Hernandez (photo on the right)
Stationed in Ft Bragg, NC in Administration

I live in Ft Bragg, NC which is home of the airborne with my wife Janycet and kids: Alex & Candida. I was born in San Juan Puerto Rico. I have been in the US Army for 4 years. I served in Iraq from 2 days after the war started in March 2003 until January 2004. I am due for another one year tour starting Feb 2006. Both me and my family thank GOD for taking care of me and bringing me back home safe and sound. Let us not forget those who gave their lives for us and those whom were wounded.

In the photo on the left, Hernandez in Iraq, was working at detonating weapons taken away from the insurgents. Hernandez is part of the 37th Engineers.

Capt. Javier M. Figueroa, II (USAF) - Editor of El Boricua's Today's Puerto Rican Soldier channel, is stationed in San Antonio. He was born in El Paso, Texas and is a graduate of the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with a degree in Bio-Chemistry. He completed his Master's Degree in Bio-Chemistry from the University of Colorado in Colorado Springs, and is now working towards his Ph.D.  Capt. Figueroa is single and enjoys snowboarding, surfing, and mountain climbing. His Puerto Rican roots are in Coamo and Aibonito. His best time in Puerto Rico was going on the Tanamá River High Adventure Trek.